Replace Exhaust Bellows w/o removing outdrive

[candyman43]

I've had my 1999 Volvo Penta SX, 4.3GL since new. The boat has been very loud for several years and based on the exhaust bubbling up right at the transom, I believe the exhaust bellows has failed. I've seen a YouTube video that shows replacing the bellows on an older outdrive without removing the outdrive. Can I replace the exhaust bellows on my specific boat without removing outdrive? I don't want to disturb other connections and items that aren't apparently in need of repair. I've read the number of forums about replacing this bellows, but couldn't find one for my model. Thanks.

 

[Scott Danforth]

yes, however you need to replace the u-joint bellows every 2 years and you need to inspect the u-joint every year, so why not replace them both. while you have the drive off, replace the inlet water fitting on the drive (that connects to the hose) as that should be looked at every 2 years.

 

[candyman43]

Thank you for such a prompt reply. Since I've never done any of those actions in 18 years, it might be time to do so. My engine only has 442 hours on it, in a fresh water lake and it spends most of its life on the lift, in a boat house. I don't have a trailer, so I'll be looking for one to borrow to take the boat to a repair shop when I can save up the money for the recommended servicing. Thanks again.

 

[Scott Danforth]

hours of run time mean nothing when the maintenance items are calendar events regardless if you ever fire the motor or not.

per the manual
bellows and impeller every 2 years
oil and filter change on motor every year
oil change on drive every 2 years
u-joint and gimbal inspection every year
remove prop and grease shaft every 3 months in salt water, every 6 months in fresh water

impeller can be changed on the lift
if your lift is in shallow enough water, so can the drive service

 

[Lou C]

That is an SX series drive and I do not believe you can change the exhaust bellows with the drive on. The exhaust bellows is held on with a normal clamp on the gimble housing end and with a snap ring on the pivot housing end and you need a snap ring pliers to remove it. Once the drive is removed, that bellows can be replaced without removing the pivot housing (the part that has the 6 studs that the drive bolts onto). However, if you are going to replace the driveshaft bellows, it is better to remove the pivot housing because then its easier to make sure the bellows is seated properly on the gimble housing flange. While you're at it I'd change the plastic hose nipple and the gasket in the water passage (o ring style) in the pivot housing.